#Waterproof vinyl flooring vs laminate install#

Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions to avoid this. Sound: If not installed properly, laminate floors can create a hollow, empty sound underfoot.If you want to change the look of the floor, or if it’s starting to look worn, you’ll have to replace it. Can’t refinish: Laminate is synthetic, and you can’t sand down and refinish the surface.We recommended a vapor barrier underneath the floor to help prevent moisture issues. Moisture: While laminate flooring has come a long way in its waterproof capabilities, not all laminate is waterproof.Cost-effective: Laminate floors are an affordable alternative to hardwood.

#Waterproof vinyl flooring vs laminate install#

You can install it as a floating floor, meaning you don’t have to deal with nails or glue.

Easy to install: Laminate flooring features interlocking edges, so you can snap the planks together in a breeze.

Easy to clean and maintain: Simply sweep up messes as needed.

You can install it in basements and bathrooms without worry. You can now purchase 100% waterproof laminate.

Waterproof options: Manufacturers have improved laminate’s water-resistant capabilities.

You can find everything from popular hand-scraped looks to distressed hardwood textures.

Realistic wood looks: Laminate flooring often features detailed textures to mimic natural hardwood floors.

Scratch resistance: Most laminate has a strong wear layer that protects the floor from scratches, wear, and staining.

Durable: Laminate flooring’s supreme durability makes it a good option for high-traffic areas or homes with kids and pets.

There are also some potential downsides you should keep in mind as you shop. To make an informed decision, it’s important to know all the advantages of laminate. SHOP LAMINATE FLOORING Pros and Cons of Laminate Flooring Related Content > Laminate Flooring Trends

Backing layer: This is the base of the laminate plank, and luxury products can sometimes include a pre-attached underlayment.

It’s a mixture of wood fibers and resin, which makes the plank water-resistant, or even waterproof.

Core layer: The core is made from high-density fiberboard (HDF).

This layer is actually a high-resolution photo, and it can include details like scrapes and knots to perfectly mimic real wood.

Print layer: Here’s where you find those stunning wood-look visuals.

Some wear layers also resist scratches and staining.

Wear layer: This is the surface layer, which protects your laminate floor from wear and tear.

Laminate flooring is typically made of four layers, but this can vary between manufacturers.

Many laminate options are scratch-resistant and stain-resistant, making this the perfect flooring for busy homes with kids and pets Related Content > Laminate Flooring Buying Guide

This flooring is also known for its durability. People also love how affordable laminate is. Laminate offers authentic wood looks that could easily pass for real hardwood. It’s made from fiberboard and a detailed image layer, and it’s known for its highly realistic wood visuals. Laminate flooring is the original wood-look flooring, first hitting the market in the 1970s. Keep reading to learn how laminate and vinyl are constructed, compare their strengths and weaknesses, and discover all the info you need to make your decision easier. So how do you choose?ĭon’t worry, we can help! We know a thing or two about flooring, and in this detailed guide, you’ll get a head-to-head comparison of laminate and vinyl. Searching for a new wood-look flooring, but not sure whether to choose laminate or vinyl? Both options offer gorgeous wood looks, and if you don’t know a lot about flooring, it might be hard to tell the difference between laminate vs.